TL;DR

Free, natural-habitat zoo

Must-see

Getting around

Best for

Our Review

Let’s start big picture. What’s the vibe here?Located in the heart of Chicago's Lincoln Park, this zoo offers free, family-friendly entertainment year-round. The sprawling grounds are seamlessly incorporated within the park, and there's a nice balance of open, natural spaces and animal exhibits for kids to check out their favorite creatures.

Fun! Any standout features or must-sees?Don't miss Alexander Camelton, the zoo's young Bactrian camel born when the Broadway show, "Hamilton," landed in the Windy City. The Regenstein Center for African Apes is a huge draw, with three different habitats for sharp-eyed, emotive chimpanzees and gorillas.

Got it. Was it easy to get around?With multiple points of entry, accessible entrances to exhibits and wide, open paths, Lincoln Park Zoo is easy to navigate.

That sounds cool. All said and done, what—and who—is this best for?If you skip the pricey concessions, Lincoln Park Zoo is a great way for young children to get some culture—and parents to entertain them, without spending a dime.